Android’s new ‘Chameleon’ malware is as impressive as it is dangerous

Android has seen all kinds of malware attacks over the years, including some very basic ones and some very complicated programs that can cause you trouble without you knowing. The latest threat in the Android world is the new ‘Chameleon’ malware, and it is one of the most dangerous pieces of malicious codes to ever exist on Android phones. Here’s everything you need to know about the malware and why it is so dangerous for your phone.

What is the Chameleon malware?

As reported by ThreatFabric, the Chameleon malware is actually a Trojan program that can sneak into your device virtually undetected and disable biometric authentication features like fingerprint-security and face unlock to obtain sensitive information from your smartphones.

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What makes the malware dangerous is the ability to ‘attach’ itself to other apps, which will continue to function as normal. The malware may attach itself to, say, a browser like Google Chrome. While the browser functions normally, the malware will run its code in the background, not alerting an active user of anything. This ability to disguise itself is where the malware picks up its name.

The malware targets Android 13 and Android 14 devices, but also works on smartphones with older Android versions slightly differently. Either way, it is dangerous to your phone. The elements the malware can grab from your phone include app usage patterns, passwords, banking details and other sensitive information.

How to stay safe from the Chameleon malware

The best way to stay safe from the Chameleon malware, or most other malicious programs on Android is by avoiding side-loading, or the process of installing apps that are not from the Google Play Store. Apps that are not from the Play Store may not go through the same security checks are often laced with malicious code. These apps are designed to be lucrative, often offering free versions of otherwise paid apps, or similar perks.

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However, they can contain malicious files too. The Chameleon Trojan is a good example of harmful code that can exist on your phone, send your sensitive details back to an attacker, who can then take action like fraudulently using your credit card, all without you not finding out anything until it is too late.

While this may sound scary, protecting yourself from such malware, can be as simple as sticking to the Play Store for all your apps and games. Download responsibly and stay safe.